It’s the first event of its kind to be held in Knowsley and aimed to encourage black and minority ethnic participation in business and increase their representation in the borough’s economy.
The event brought together existing and prospective black entrepreneurs, business support agencies and various community groups to shine the spotlight on opportunities for black entrepreneurs in Knowsley and the wider Liverpool City Region.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, welcomed everyone to the event. He commented:
“Knowsley is a very supportive borough where a strong community spirit shines through. Our population is becoming more diverse, and we want to make sure that our diversity strengthens this community spirit. It’s important we support black and minority ethnic entrepreneurship in Knowsley and promote the borough as an attractive place to live and work. But we must also identify the specific needs of black entrepreneurs and any additional barriers that may exist. I hope that delegates found this event useful and that we continue to work together to provide opportunities for black entrepreneurship in Knowsley.”
To start the day, guest speakers Primrose Matsega, Founder of Best Care Liverpool, Michelle Peterkin-Walker, freelance artist at Reklaw3, Akoma Arts and Professor Nduka Nnamdi Ekere from Liverpool John Moores University delivered passionate and thought-provoking presentations to delegates about their experiences.
The event continued with an engaging Q&A session with an expert panel and concluded with a thriving marketplace where local business showcased their products and services and delegates had the opportunity to network and make connections.
Delegates were full of praise for the day and said they found it inspiring and ground-breaking, lively, engaging, energetic and most were keen for this type of event to happen again.
“I wanted to say a big well done for the event. I was really impressed with the number and range of businesses at the event and the energy around the room.”
Emeka Onuora – LCR Race Equality Programme Manager
“The words inspiring, moving, ground-breaking, fascinating, and thought provoking don’t do sufficient justice. The room was filled with the most incredible people bursting with talent, skill, warmth humour, positivity, and ambition. There was a terrific atmosphere, packed venue and everyone agreed it was a first for the city region and must happen again.”
Event sponsor Geraldine Fuller, BIPC Liverpool
“What a fantastic, motivational, and engaging morning I had. Thank you to all of those who made it happen and especially to the panel for their engagement and insightful presentations.”
Kevin Rogers – CEO, Merseyside Community Training
Find out more
If you would like to find out more about business support in Knowsley, you can get in touch with the Business Growth Team on 0151 477 4000 or email Business@knowsley.gov.uk